Beautiful Webley WS Target in 22 Rimfire

Published on November 15, 2019
Duration: 6:47

This video provides an expert-level overview of the rare Webley WS Target revolver in .22 Long Rifle, presented by Ian McCollum. It details the model's history, its relation to the WG and Mark IV models, specific variants, unique mechanical features like the stepped cylinder and barrel liner, and markings for identification. The presentation highlights the firearm's historical significance and rarity, particularly its use by military training institutions.

Quick Summary

The rare Webley WS Target revolver in .22 Long Rifle features a unique .22 caliber barrel liner inserted into an original .45 caliber barrel and a stepped cylinder for rimfire cartridges. It combines the Webley Mark IV's mechanism with the WG model's target grip, with production numbers being notably low.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Webley WS Target
  2. 00:22Model History: WS vs WG/Mark IV
  3. 01:19Target vs. Army Variants
  4. 02:13Markings and Identification
  5. 02:58Sight Adjustments
  6. 03:23Mechanical Features: Stepped Cylinder
  7. 04:46Barrel Construction: .22 Liner
  8. 05:31Production and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Webley WS Target .22 Long Rifle revolver unique?

The Webley WS Target .22 is unique due to its .22 caliber barrel liner inserted into an original .45 caliber barrel, its stepped cylinder for rimfire cartridges, and its combination of the Webley Mark IV's mechanism with the WG model's square-butt target grip.

What are the key identifying features of a Webley WS Target Model?

Key features include the 'W.S. TARGET MODEL' stamp on the top strap, a '.22' caliber marking on the frame, the manufacturer's mark 'P. Webley & Son London & Birmingham', and a specific serial number range, often around the 125,000-127,000 mark.

How was the Webley WS Target adapted to fire .22 Long Rifle ammunition?

It was adapted by fitting a rifled .22 caliber barrel liner into the original larger-caliber barrel and incorporating a stepped cylinder to correctly time and lock up the smaller rimfire cartridges within the full-size frame.

What is the historical significance of the Webley WS Target revolver?

The Webley WS Target is historically significant as a successor to the WG model, incorporating features for target shooting and training. Some were sold to military training institutions before World War I, highlighting its role in early 20th-century firearm development and use.

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